Northern Arizona forest officials propose thinning project

FREDONIA — Forest officials on the Kaibab Plateau want to mechanically thin trees and do prescribed burns on about 5,000 acres to protect structures from the threat of wildfires.

Some of the 33 structures or facilities on the Kaibab National Forest in far northern Arizona are historic, while others are commercial and administrative buildings, and communication sites. Many of them are used heavily during the summer months by recreationists.

The work would take place over the next two to three years.

A draft environmental assessment for the project was released this week, triggering a 30-day public comment period.

Forest officials say the risk of wildfire is due partly to overly dense stands of trees, heavy fuels on the forest floor and low tree canopies.